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Epilepsy: Generalized Seizures

Topic Overview

Epilepsy that causes generalized seizures is more
common in children than in adults. Unlike partial seizures, which begin in a
specific, often damaged area in the brain, generalized seizures cannot be
traced to a specific location or focus. The abnormal electrical activity that
causes seizures begins over the entire surface of the brain. And these seizures tend
to affect the entire body.

Epilepsy that causes generalized seizures may have no known cause
(idiopathic), or it may result from another condition (symptomatic). Drug
therapy is the usual treatment approach. But surgery may be helpful in
some cases.

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